COVID-19 Vaccine Sign | Photo by Diana Jaber | The Wright State Guardian
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) fully approved the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19, allowing public schools and universities such as Wright State University (WSU) to require vaccination from students, staff and faculty.
House Bill 244
House Bill 244, passed on July 14 and taking effect on Oct. 13, states that public schools and universities cannot require students, staff and faculty to receive any vaccine, including vaccines for COVID-19, not fully approved by the FDA.
Previously, the Johnson and Johnson, Moderna and Pfizer vaccines were all approved for emergency use by the FDA. Public schools and universities were not allowed to mandate coronavirus vaccinations because of this in Ohio.
The FDA fully approved the Pfizer vaccine Monday morning.
House Bill 248
House Bill 248, the Vaccine Choice and Anti-Discrimination Act, is currently in the House Committee. It was introduced by state Rep. Jennifer Gross, R-West Chester.
“No person, public official or employee, public agency, state agency, political subdivision, school, child day-care center, nursing home, residential care facility, health care provider, insurer, institution, or employer shall mandate, require, or otherwise request an individual to receive a vaccine,” except under previously existing exemptions,” according to the bill.
The Bill, if passed, would keep public universities such as WSU from mandating any vaccine, including the coronavirus vaccine.
WSU responds
Currently, WSU mandates face coverings inside all buildings and asks students to practice social distancing when outside if not wearing a mask.
At this time, the university does not plan to mandate vaccinations, according to numerous press releases and statements from university officials.
According to WSU spokesperson Seth Bauguess, WSU’s vaccination policy will not change at this time.
